BEd vs. NET Exam Key Differences, and How to Make Informed Career Choice

To become a Teacher or Professor in India, candidates need to meet certain eligibility criteria and in this article on BEd vs NET, we will discuss everything in detail from the definition of BEd and NET to the differentiation, career scope, and salary.

BEd vs NET: India is among the countries the youngest countries in the world with the average age being 32.4 years. Now this is a two-edged sword because, if this young generation is well-guided they can break all barriers of success and make the nation great, but if they are misguided, India can fall below. This is where the role of a teacher becomes very crucial as teaching is the only profession in the world that contributes to nation-building. Teachers are the first person a child listens to after their parents that is the reason why teaching as a profession is always considered noble and is a hot cake for candidates wanting to have a settled career.

To become a Teacher or Professor in India, candidates need to meet certain eligibility criteria and in this article on BEd vs NET, we will discuss everything in detail.

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What is the BEd vs NET confusion?

There is confusion among students when choosing between a Bachelor of Education (BEd) degree and a National Eligibility Test (NET). In simple layman's language, it can be understood that BEd is an undergraduate degree course that candidates pursue to apply for teacher positions in private and government schools, whereas NET is an entrance exam which candidates can qualify to become Assistant Professors in Universities and Colleges. 

It needs to be understood that BEd and NET are two distant things. They are not the same by any margin. The BEd is a course while NET is an entrance examination. 

Both paths offer distinct advantages and cater to different career goals. Through this article, we will help students understand the differences between the BEd and NET exams so that it helps them make informed choices.

Understanding BEd and NET  

What is a Bachelor of Education (BEd)?

A BEd is an undergraduate professional degree program that is designed to teach students the necessary skills and knowledge to become skillful teachers. While pursuing the BEd course students are taught educational psychology, curriculum development, pedagogy, and teaching methodologies. Once candidates complete the BEd course they will be eligible to apply in TET exams and work as school teachers or pursue further studies in education-related fields.   

What is the National Eligibility Test (NET)?

The National Testing Agency (NTA) on behalf of the University Grants Commission (UGC) conducts the NET exam which is a nationwide competitive examination that determines the eligibility of candidates for the role of Assistant Professor or to secure a Junior Research Fellowship (JRF) in Indian universities and colleges. Candidates are tested on their knowledge in specific subjects and their aptitude for teaching and research.

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Differentiating Key Factors of BEd vs NET:

Particulars	BEd	NET
Purpose	The BEd course primarily focuses on preparing individuals for teaching careers.	The NET evaluates candidates' suitability for academic and research roles.
Eligibility Criteria	Graduation/Post-graduation with at least 50% marks (45% for reserved categories).	Post-graduation with at least 55% marks (50% for reserved categories).
Area of Expertise	Pedagogy, teaching methods, classroom management, educational psychology.	Subject-specific knowledge, research aptitude, and teaching aptitude.
Curriculum	The curriculum of BEd emphasizes practical teaching skills and pedagogical theories.	Unlike the BEd curriculum, the NET syllabus covers subject-specific knowledge and research aptitude.
Duration	BEd is a course and it typically takes one or two-year full-time for the candidate to complete the program.	The NET  is not a course it is a competitive exam that candidates can attempt after completing their postgraduate studies.
Certification	Candidates who complete the BEd course receive a professional teaching certification.	After qualifying for the NET exam, there are ample opportunities for academic positions and research fellowships for the students to pursue.
Career Paths	Once students complete the BEd course they become BEd graduates and can pursue teaching careers in schools, colleges, and educational institutions.	NET qualifiers can opt for teaching, research, or pursuing higher education as scholars.
Benefits	BEd course provides candidates with practical knowledge of teaching experience, offers specialized education training, enhances employability as a teacher, and fosters personal and professional growth.	Opens doors to academic and research careers, offers eligibility for Assistant Professor positions, and provides opportunities for continuous learning and intellectual growth.
Drawbacks	Requires dedicated time and resources, is limited to teaching career pathways, and may not provide opportunities for research-oriented roles.	Highly competitive, requires extensive preparation, uncertainty in securing teaching positions depending on vacancies.
Entrance Exams	Admission via B.Ed entrance exams (state/university level).	The NET exam is conducted by the NTA (National Testing Agency) twice a year.
Recruiters	Government and private schools, coaching centers.	Colleges, universities, research institutions, think tanks.
Salary Expectations	INR 2.5 - INR 5 LPA (for school teachers).	INR 4 - INR 8 LPA (for Assistant Professors); higher for experienced candidates.

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Why Pursue BEd or NET Exam:?

The BEd is ideal for individuals who are passionate about teaching and are seeking hands-on education training. After completing the BEd course, candidates will be able to apply to private schools and also apply for various government teacher recruitment exams. NET on the other hand is suited for candidates who aspire to pursue an academic or research-oriented career, the qualification in the NET exam provides students opportunities for professional advancement in the field of higher education.

BEd vs NET Salary

Candidates who qualify for BEd can apply as Teachers. In India the salary of a private school teacher can be anything between INR 15,000 to INR 50,000 depending upon their experience, the class of students they teach as well as the brand of the private school. The salary of a government school teacher starts from INR 40,000 and can go anywhere between INR 70,000 to 80,000 depending upon the pay scale.

Candidates who qualify for NET become eligible to apply as Assistant Professor in Colleges or Universities. In India the salary of a private college professor can be anything between INR 30,000 to INR 60,000 depending upon their experience, the course they teach as well as the brand of the college or the university. The salary of a government college professor starts from INR 70,000 and can go anywhere between INR 1,00,000 to 1,25,000 depending upon the pay scale.

Also read:

• Distance B.Ed vs Regular B.Ed - Advantages, Disadvantages, and Colleges
• Difference between B.Ed and M.Ed Programme

How to Make an Informed Career Choice?

1. Identify Career Goals:
• If you are keen on making a career in teaching at the school level and your focus subjects are pedagogy and classroom management, then B.Ed is the right choice.
• If you aspire to teach at the college level or want to pursue a research career, then you can take the NET exam.
2. Consider Educational Background:
• B.Ed is for graduates who want to specialize in teaching methodologies and practical skills while the NET course is designed for candidates with a strong academic background and in-depth knowledge of a particular subject.
3. Assess Job Stability and Growth:
• Both paths whether it is BEd or NET, offer stable career options. However, NET-qualified candidates generally have more opportunities in academia and research, while B. Ed graduates have in-school education.
4. Long-term Career Growth:
• Before taking forward to any course be it BEd or NET students analyze long-term career prospects. B.Ed offers growth in school education, while 
• NET opens doors to advanced academic roles.
5. Salary:
• This is the most important aspect as at the end of the day it comes down to finances. While entry-level salaries for school teachers (B.Ed) may be lower, government positions offer long-term financial security and perks.
• NET-qualified professionals, especially in reputed institutions, can command higher salaries and grants.

Bottom line

The choice between pursuing a BEd degree or appearing for the NET exam solely depends on the student and their career aspirations, interests, as well as their long-term goals. By understanding the differences we have mentioned in this article on BEd vs NET, students will be able to understand the pros and cons and can make informed decisions to embark on the field of education.

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